Brief Summary
This video by Centurion Defence Academy discusses how to effectively present your hobbies and interests during an interview for the SSB (Services Selection Board). It differentiates between hobbies and interests, provides examples of common hobbies, and advises on what to include and exclude in your PIQ (Personal Information Questionnaire) form. Key points include ensuring your hobbies involve mental or physical exercise, being knowledgeable about your stated hobbies, and avoiding listing activities you've never tried or those that don't positively reflect your personality.
- Hobbies should involve mental or physical exercise and require effort.
- Be prepared to discuss your hobbies in detail during an interview.
- Avoid listing activities you've never tried or those that don't positively reflect your personality.
Introduction: Hobbies and Interests for SSB Interview
The video introduces the topic of hobbies and interests in the context of SSB interviews. It emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting what you write in your PIQ form, as it reflects your personality. The discussion aims to guide candidates on what to include and exclude to make a positive impression.
Understanding Hobbies vs. Interests
The video defines hobbies and interests, highlighting that both should make you feel good. Interests are considered the base form, like enjoying a drama or listening to music, which don't necessarily involve mental or physical exercise. Hobbies, on the other hand, require either mental or physical exertion. For example, playing badminton once in a while is an interest, while a hobby involves regular and dedicated effort.
Common Hobbies: Reading
The video discusses reading as a common hobby. While it's good to enjoy reading, it's important to derive lessons from the books you read. The interviewer may ask what you learned from a particular book. The video cautions against mentioning complex spiritual books like the Ramayana or Mahabharata without a deep understanding, as you may be asked detailed questions.
Common Hobbies: Painting, Drawing, Sketching
Painting, drawing, and sketching are presented as good hobbies. If you mention these, be prepared to answer questions about the type of paint or sketching you do, the time you spend on it, and what you like to create. Sketching is quicker, while painting requires more time and multiple sessions.
Common Hobbies: Dancing
Dancing is highlighted as a beneficial hobby that relaxes the mind and exercises the body. If you claim dancing as a hobby, you should be able to name a few favorite songs you enjoy dancing to. This demonstrates genuine interest and involvement.
Common Hobbies: Photography
Photography is presented as a very nice hobby. You should specify the type of photography you engage in, such as nature or wildlife. Wildlife photography requires significant effort and knowledge. Be prepared to discuss the camera you use and its features.
Common Hobbies: Cooking
Cooking is described as a double-edged sword. It should be a genuine interest, not a compulsion done only when necessary. If cooking is your hobby, you should regularly cook and have favorite dishes you enjoy making.
Common Hobbies: Traveling, Exploring, Trekking
Traveling, exploring new places, and trekking can be tricky hobbies to list. These often require time and money. Simply traveling from one place to another for coaching doesn't qualify as a hobby. If you're interested but constrained by time and resources, it's better to express it as an interest.
Common Hobbies: Playing Chess
Playing chess is a good hobby if played sincerely. A meaningful chess game should last at least 20-25 minutes to allow for thoughtful decision-making. Quick games focused on killing pawns don't demonstrate a true exercise of the mind.
Common Hobbies: Running and Yoga
Running and yoga are good hobbies, but you should be actively involved. If running, aim for at least 5 km regularly, and longer distances on weekends. Casual running with more talking than exercise doesn't qualify.
Common Hobbies: Sports (Football, Basketball, etc.)
Sports like football and basketball can be hobbies if you play regularly and enjoy them. If you dedicate significant time to a sport, it can be listed as both a sport and a hobby. These activities involve both physical exertion and mental strategy.
What Not to Include: Movies, Diary Writing
The video advises against including certain activities. Watching movies is generally seen as a passive activity and doesn't earn brownie points. Diary writing is a double-edged sword; avoid mentioning it, as you might be asked about your entries, potentially revealing negative aspects.
What Not to Include: Listening to Music, Video Games
Listening to music can be an interest but doesn't carry much weight as a hobby since it doesn't involve significant mental or physical activity. Video games, especially if addictive, should be avoided as they don't offer positive attributes.
Including Untried Activities
The video strongly advises against including activities you've never tried. You should have some experience with your listed interests and hobbies. If you haven't even tried something, it's not a genuine interest.
Conclusion
The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of being careful and thoughtful when filling out the PIQ form, ensuring that your hobbies and interests are accurately and positively represented.
